Living in the Lone Star State: 20 Drawbacks to Consider About Texas

Texas, the second-largest state in the U.S., is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and booming economy. But beneath the surface, there are several significant challenges that residents face on a daily basis.

From extreme weather conditions to high property taxes, living in Texas is not always a walk in the park.

Before packing your bags and heading to the heart of the South, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of calling Texas home. 

1. Scorching Summers & Relentless Heat Waves

Texas summers are notorious for their blistering heat, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F (38°C). The oppressive heat can make outdoor activities uncomfortable and even dangerous, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with health issues.

To combat the heat, Texans heavily rely on air conditioning, which can lead to high energy bills during the summer months. 

2. Devastating Tornadoes & Severe Weather

As part of the infamous “Tornado Alley,” Texas experiences some of the most destructive tornadoes in the United States. These powerful storms can cause significant property damage and pose a serious threat to public safety.

In addition to tornadoes, Texas is also prone to severe thunderstorms, flash floods, and hurricanes along the Gulf Coast. These extreme weather events can disrupt daily life, cause power outages, and require residents to have robust emergency preparedness plans in place.

3. Large Bugs & Wildlife Encounters

Texas is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including some less-than-pleasant creatures like cockroaches, fire ants, mosquitoes, and venomous snakes. Encounters with these pests can be more common than in other states, making outdoor activities and even some indoor spaces less enjoyable.

4. The Allergy Capital of the World

The state, particularly Central Texas, is known for its high pollen counts and lengthy allergy seasons. The infamous “cedar fever,” caused by the pollen of mountain cedar trees, can trigger severe allergic reactions in many residents. Allergy sufferers often have to rely on medication and limit their time outdoors during peak pollen seasons. 

5. Sky-High Property Taxes

While Texas boasts the absence of a state income tax, it makes up for it with some of the highest property taxes in the nation. According to the Tax Foundation (ref), Texas has the sixth-highest effective property tax rate in the U.S. at 1.69%.

The added cost can be particularly burdensome for retirees and those on fixed incomes, who may struggle to keep up with the annual tax bills.

6. Car-Dependent Cities & Limited Public Transit

Texas cities are known for their sprawling layouts and heavy reliance on cars for transportation. Public transit options are often limited, especially in suburban and rural areas, making it challenging for those without access to a vehicle to get around.

The lack of comprehensive public transportation contributes to increased traffic congestion and longer commute times in major metropolitan areas like Houston and Dallas. 

7. Droughts & Water Scarcity

Texas is no stranger to droughts, with parts of the state frequently experiencing water scarcity. These dry spells can lead to restrictions on water usage, affecting everything from agriculture to everyday activities like watering lawns or washing cars.

As the state’s population continues to grow and climate change intensifies, the demand for water resources is expected to increase, exacerbating the issue of water scarcity. 

8. Polarized Political Climate

Texas has a reputation for its conservative political leanings, which may not align with everyone’s personal views or values. The state’s policies on issues like abortion, gun rights, and LGBTQ+ rights can be divisive and contentious.

This polarized political environment can create a sense of exclusion or discomfort for those with more liberal or progressive ideologies. It can also influence public policies, such as education curricula and healthcare access, which may not align with some residents’ beliefs or needs.

9. Subtle Seasonal Changes

If you’re a fan of the classic four-season experience, Texas might leave you feeling a bit disappointed. The state’s climate is primarily warm, with subtle seasonal changes that can be less pronounced than in other regions of the country.

10. Vast Distances Between Cities

Texas is the second-largest state in the U.S., which means that traveling between cities can involve long drives across expansive landscapes. This can be a disadvantage for those who prefer more compact geographical areas or quick access to different urban centers.

For some, the sheer size of Texas can feel isolating or overwhelming, particularly if they are accustomed to living in more densely populated areas.

11. Struggling Public Education System

Texas faces significant challenges within its public education system, including issues related to funding, teacher salaries, and student performance. The state has faced criticism for its high-stakes testing culture and its struggle to close achievement gaps among different student populations.

Families may find themselves having to navigate a complex and sometimes underfunded school system, which can be a source of stress and concern.

12. Uneven Access to Healthcare

Access to quality healthcare can be a challenge in certain parts of Texas, particularly in rural areas. These regions often suffer from a lack of healthcare facilities and medical professionals, leading to longer travel times for medical care and fewer options for specialized treatment.

13. Sprawling Cities & Lengthy Commutes

Rapid population growth in Texas cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin has led to widespread urban sprawl. This expansion has consumed natural landscapes, increased traffic congestion, and resulted in longer commute times for residents.

The sprawling nature of Texas cities can make it more difficult for individuals to access essential services, green spaces, and community resources.

14. Oil-Dependent Economy & Job Instability

The boom-and-bust cycle of the oil industry can create a sense of uncertainty and stress for Texans whose livelihoods are closely linked to the sector. This economic vulnerability can also have ripple effects throughout the state, impacting businesses and communities that rely on the financial stability of the oil and gas workforce.

15. Flood-Prone Areas

Many parts of Texas, particularly the Houston area, are susceptible to severe flooding events. These floods can cause extensive property damage, displace residents, and disrupt daily life for extended periods.

Living in flood-prone areas or hurricane-vulnerable regions often requires additional insurance coverage and a heightened level of emergency preparedness. 

16. Limited Cultural Diversity in Some Regions

While Texas is known for its diverse population, certain areas of the state may lack the cultural variety found in more cosmopolitan cities. This can be particularly true in smaller towns and rural communities, where cultural homogeneity is more prevalent.

The lack of cultural diversity can also impact the availability of international festivals, ethnic restaurants, and other multicultural experiences that some residents may crave.

17. Higher Crime Rates in Urban Centers

Like many states, Texas has its share of crime-related challenges, particularly in larger urban areas. Cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio have experienced higher rates of property crime and violent crime compared to the national average. (ref)

While crime rates vary significantly between neighborhoods and communities, the reality of urban crime is a concern that many Texans must navigate.

18. Deregulated Utilities & Service Challenges

The state’s power grid has come under scrutiny in recent years, most notably during the February 2021 winter storm that left millions of Texans without electricity in freezing temperatures. 

The deregulated nature of the energy market can make it more challenging for residents to navigate service issues and hold providers accountable.

19. Invasive Species & Ecological Disruption

Texas grapples with the presence of invasive species, such as the notorious feral hog, which can wreak havoc on local ecosystems and agricultural land. 

Controlling and managing these invasive species often requires significant resources and collaborative efforts between landowners, government agencies, and conservation organizations. 

20. Intense Sports Culture & Rivalry

While not necessarily a drawback for everyone, the intense sports culture in Texas can be overwhelming for those who aren’t passionate about athletics. The state’s love for football, in particular, borders on religious fervor, with high school and college rivalries often dominating social conversations and community events.

The pressure to participate in or follow local sports teams can be a source of social stress for some Texans who prefer other interests or hobbies.